Bimini Tops

How do I mount my bimini top?

For standard bimini tops drilling is required, as the bimini is mounted onto the top or on the outside of the boat. For pontoon bimini tops, which are mounted onto your pontoon’s side rails, drilling is also required. For tower bimini tops no drilling is required. Instead, the bimini clamps directly onto the boat tower itself.

How fast can I go when my bimini top is deployed?

You can safely deploy and use your Carver bimini tops while operating at speeds of up to 35 MPH, and up to 45MPH for Westland. If you would like to go faster with your top up, we recommend thru-bolting.

How do I thru-bolt my bimini top so that I can go faster than 35 MPH with it up and in use?

If you have nylon fittings you’ll first need to replace them with stainless steel fittings.

The next step is to thru-bolt the connection points of the bimini to the boat—the front and rear eye straps, as well as the deck hinge. In order to thru-bolt, you’ll need a longer bolt that travels completely through the fiberglass and reaches to the underside. For added stability and security, we recommend adding an extra washer and nut.

Lastly, check the top for stability, ensuring the front of the top is angled downward. If it isn’t, pull the front hold-down straps tight in order to change the angle. As always, check all straps and fittings for tightness before using your bimini top at speeds higher than 35 MPH.

*Note: Thru-bolting will allow you to operate your boat at speeds of up to 45 MPH with the top still up. Keep in mind wind speeds and adjust your speed accordingly. Whenever trailering your boat, your bimini top should be laid down flat.

Slide tracks mount to the gunwale of your boat and allow your bimini top to slide into a more convenient, horizontal storage position. Bimini top slide track kits come with two tracks and all the necessary mounting hardware.

Standard 2, 3, and 4 bow bimini tops come with mounting brackets that allow the bimini to lay flat when not in use. Optional Brace Kits are specifically designed to hold your bimini top up and out of the way when it's folded and not in use. As an alternative to braces, Slide Tracks allow a retracted bimini top to easily slide into storage position.
Bimini top towers can also be folded down or removed for storage.

When you lay your bimini top down, it will elongate. This is due to the way the metal bows nestle together. If you intend to fish from your boat while your bimini top is down—or if you have other equipment stored in your boat—this could cause an issue with space. Below we list each Carver bimini top height, and how long that top will be from the mounting point to the top of the canvas when it is laying down flat in your boat.

Can I replace the fabric portion only on my Bimini top?

Yes, you can replace the fabric portion on your bimini top! To find one that works for your boat, take a look at the Carver Replacement Canvas section in our bimini top accessories.

Carver's bimini top replacement canvases are made for pontoon bimini tops that measure 48" or 54" high and come in lengths of 8', 9', or 10'. The canvas is made to fit a bimini top that mounts to the boat somewhere between 91 and 102". The replacement canvas also comes with zippered sleeves and a cut-out for the running light, allowing you to easily fit it to the frame without having to remove anything.

How do I clean my bimini top?

When it comes to bimini top cleaning, there are several directions you can go. Below are two options that involve a combination of household ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions.

For Mildew

- 1 cup Vinegar
- 1 cup Borax
- 2 cups warm water
Mix and apply to mildew spots, letting it sit for no more than 10 minutes. Scrub with a soft bristle brush and rinse well, allowing the fabric to dry completely.

For General Cleaning

- ¼ cup Dawn dish soap
- 1 gallon water
Fully wet the fabric and then scrub it down with a soft brush or cloth, give it a good rinse, and allow the fabric to fully dry.

Get tough spots clean with Fabric and Vinyl Cleaner

Apply Fabric Guard to the clean, dry surface to protect the fabric from the elements and extend their life.

NEVER

Put in washer and dryer
Use powerful cleaners like bleach or detergent

If you're using your bimini top in saltwater, make sure to properly clean it after each saltwater outing to prevent rust or corrosion. To clean your bimini top after saltwater use, it's best to remember a few key points.